Reliance Withdraws Trademark Bid for 'Operation Sindoor' After Public Outcry

Last Updated May - 08 - 2025, 05:38 PM | Source : Fela News

After backlash, Reliance Industries has withdrawn its trademark application for 'Operation Sindoor', clarifying it was filed in error. The term refers to India’

Following India’s announcement of airstrikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir under 'Operation Sindoor', four parties filed trademark applications for the term. These included Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) and three individuals — Mukesh Chetram Agrawal, Retired Group Captain Kamal Singh Oberh, and Alok Kothari — who applied independently under Class 41, which covers educational and entertainment services, according to an ET report. However, RIL has since withdrawn its application.

In a statement, RIL clarified that the application was mistakenly filed by a junior employee without approval. “Reliance Industries has no intention of trademarking Operation Sindoor, a term that now represents national pride and military courage,” it said. The company emphasized its respect for the Armed Forces and reiterated its support for the country’s fight against terrorism.

RIL's withdrawn application had included entertainment and audio-visual content services, online publications, forums, and event organization. Legal experts explained that trademarking under Class 41 provides exclusive usage rights in the entertainment sector. The government had announced Operation Sindoor as a strategic military action targeting terror infrastructure used to launch attacks on Indian soil.